Another topic that is surprisingly picking up attention across the blog-o-sphere is Lumosity, which is a brain fitness time-waster with a serious nature and profound dedication to improving peoples cognitive abilities through a series of web-based exercises.

Duncan Riley has this to say:

In developing Lumosity, Lumos Labs worked closely with leading neuroscientists from Stanford and UCSF to design and experimentally test the program. In a randomized, controlled study, the exercises were shown to have statistically significant effects in improving memory and attention.

Brain games are wildly popular in Japan and Europe, the Ninentendo DS Brain Age has sold millions of copies. The delivery of similar functionality online is the logical next step and although they might not be the most engaging games, that’s not the goal here.

Lumosity justifies their addictive transference of distraction with the following:

Memory

It can be a challenge to store and retrieve all the information we need to remember, even if it is just for a short period of time. One of the most important types of memory is known as working memory, which is typically used for temporarily storing and manipulating information. Working memory is critical in many cognitive processes including reasoning, problem solving and language.

Processing Speed

Processing speed determines how quickly one can perceive and interpret information, and then begin to act appropriately. Processing speed is considered by some to be a bottleneck to other cognitive processes, and it is therefore a focus of Lumosity training.

Attention

The ability to selectively concentrate on the most important information allows us to follow a conversation, drive safely, and efficiently attend to the task at hand.

Cognitive Control

Cognitive control, also known as executive processing, refers to a set of high-level processes such as decision-making, planning, and suppressing inappropriate behavior. Cognitive control helps align thought and behavior with intentions.